Information Technology (IT), the Internet and the web have a profound influence on most people – these technologies influence the way we work, study, conduct business, socialise and entertain. Many publications cover these technologies, and the emphasis is usually more on their advantages. The focus of this book is on the benefits as well as on the limitations and constraints that these technologies bring.
This book is an extended and updated version of Formalizing Internet, Web and eBusiness Applications for the Real World (Scarecrow Press, 2005). New parts added to this book include usability, system development, cloud computing and the digital world. The book now consists of nine parts, namely the fundamentals of IT, IT-related constraints, usability, system development, Internet and WWW basics, business-to-consumer applications, business-to-business applications, cloud computing and large data repositories, and a look into the future of the digital world. Each part is further subdivided into chapters focusing on specific topics.
The book has been written in the format of a textbook for introductory courses. It contains a number of case studies to further explain and illustrate the themes of the text. The text is easy to follow, and margin text is used to explain terms and concepts. Notes at the end of each chapter include some references to further reading, but unfortunately there is no overall list of references or a bibliography.
It is not necessary to read the text in the sequence in which the parts are presented, and this feature enables readers to select the parts and chapters that most apply to their situation or interest them most. Readers with a good IT background can also skim through certain parts. Readers without an IT background will need to read the parts on the basic aspects first, but may choose to skip the more technically-oriented chapters. The book is accompanied by a web page, but at the time of reviewing this page was not available.
The book provides a basic understanding of IT, the Internet and the WWW and how these technologies influence our lives. It is mostly aimed at novice readers who are interested in this field of study. No background knowledge of computer science is required, but experience in the use of personal computers and the Internet will enhance one's understanding and appreciation of the book.
This work should be recommended reading for students in computer science, information science, information technology, informatics, information and knowledge management, as well as students studying the social sciences, economics and business. It may not be possible to cover the complete text in one course, but lecturers should be able to make selections from parts that are mostly applicable to their study fields. Furthermore, the book is an interesting and in some respects fascinating text for individuals who want to learn more about the influence of these technologies on their everyday lives.
